I know the Subaru has long been one of the primary
engine swaps in the Vanagon, and for good reason too.
They are strong at 130+ hp for the EJ22 and more for
the newer engines, reliably run for hundreds of
thousands of miles, and are clean burners.

Still, there are other options that, while perhaps
slightly more expensive, provide more horsepower and
torque while additionally being reliable and clean.  I
have had a 1.8T in my 85 Westfalia for 5000 miles now,
and in it's chipped form produces 215+ hp and 240+
ft-lbs of torque.  It is clean burning, reliable,
modern, Volkswagen, and fun to drive all in one
package.  I had a shop perform the install, and it
cost roughly $1500 more than the EJ22 another shop was
going to install for me, certainly worth it for the
additional 70 horsepower.  Just a consideration for
some of you.

Erik